• Admission Requirements
• Application Procedure
• Program Cost
• Academic Merit Based Scholarships
• Graduate Bursaries
• Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Higher Education Grants

Admission Requirements

Prerequisites

• A four-year baccalaureate degree with a grade point average (GPA) of 2.5 or higher from an accredited university.

Applicants holding a baccalaureate degree not meeting the minimum requirements must include a personal statement justifying why an exception should be made. The justification could include appropriate work experience, references, and certified copies if any other documents, awards or examples of completed works to support the application for admission.

• The language of instruction is English. Student success is closely tied to English proficiency. Applicants must meet one of the following requirements:

An IELTS score of 5.50 (with minimum sub scores no less than 5.0 in reading and writing)

A TOEFL paper-based score of 550

A TOEFL computer-based score of 213

A TOEFL internet-based score of 79

An English language proficiency test result is normally considered valid if the test has been taken no more than two years prior to the start date of the graduate program. If the applicant has a baccalaureate degree from a university in which English is the language of instruction and the university is located in a country where the principal language is English, the exam will likely be waived.

• Executive Mastersdegree applicants (EMBA, EMHCA and EMPA):

At least three years of mid- to upper-level management experience.

• Executive Masters in Business Administration and Master of Science in International Business degree applicants:

A basic knowledge of accounting, finance, economics and statistics prior to gaining entry into the main masters program. Applicants may therefore be required to successfully complete appropriate pre-program courses at the discretion of the Admissions Committee. Students who have completed the equivalent courses at other institutions will be exempted from this requirement.

•  Institute for Islamic World Studies: Master of Arts (M.A.) degree applicants in the English track: 

Proficiency in Arabic reading.

•  Institute for Islamic World Studies: Master of Arts (M.A.) degree applicants in the Arabic track: 

The standard English language proficiency requirements for admission is waived as an entry requirement, but English language proficiency must be proved as an exit requirement for students admitted in the Arabic track. Students in the Arabic track must have at least one of the following English language requirements at the exit of the program: 

An IELTS score of 5.0

A TOEFL paper-based score of 500

A TOEFL computer-based score of 173

A TOEFL internet-based score of 61

 Other Admission Requirements

• Transcript/Degree Certificate
  
  

  Applicants are required to submit an official transcript with an English translation (if necessary) from the university granting the degree. Transcripts in Arabic should be translated into English. The transcript should indicate the degree and when it was received. If the transcript does not include this information, an official degree certificate must be submitted. If the degree is awarded by a foreign university, a letter from the U.A.E. Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research recognizing the degree must be submitted.

• Essay
  
  

  Applicants, other than Education degree/graduate certificate applicants, are required to submit a 250-word essay in English stating how the graduate program would support their career goals. Hand written essays will not be accepted.

  Education degree/graduate certificate applicants are required to write two essays in English as part of the application. Limit each essay to two print pages using 12 pt. font.

  1. Describe your aptitude and motivation for graduate study in education, including your preparation for this field of study, your academic plans, and your future career goals.
  2. Discuss how your personal background informs your decision to pursue the education program of your choice. Please include any educational, familial, cultural, economic or social experiences, challenges, or opportunities relevant to your wish to continue your education. Discuss how you might contribute to improvement of education and how you might serve education with your degree or graduate certificate.

• Writing Sample
  
  

  In addition to the essay, Master of Arts (M.A.) in Communications and Master of Arts (M.A.) in Diplomacy and International Affairs degree/graduate certificate applicants are required to include a writing sample in English (preferably a technical document such as a report; an academic essay is also acceptable). Limit the writing sample to five print pages in 12 pt. font.

• Confidential Letters of Recommendation
  

  Applicants must include two letters of professional or academic recommendation. One letter should be from the applicant's current line manager/supervisor. An applicant who does not have work experience may provide two academic letters of reference. Download the appropriate Confidential Letter of Recommendation form, or alternatively candidates may wish to contact the Office of Graduate Studies at +971-50-454-1176 to request these to be sent to them. Candidates should hand these forms to the persons who will write the recommendations. Both  letters must be sealed and signed across the flaps. The confidential recommendation letters should be returned to the Graduate Recruitment Specialist at the Office of Graduate Studies.

• Admission Interview
  
  

  Once applicants submit their applications to the Office of Graduate Studies, the Admissions Office will conduct a preliminary screening based upon their undergraduate GPA and TOEFL/IELTS scores. If applicants meet the admission requirements, they will be invited for a personal interview with the College Admissions Committee to further probe their suitability for a masters degree/graduate certificate program. The personal interview is a critical step in the admissions process and should be considered seriously. The purpose of the interview is to:

-Provide additional insight into the applicant's ability and desire to complete a masters degree/ graduate certificate programs;

-Assess the applicant's suitability for the masters degree/graduate certificate program and academic preparedness; and

-Provide an opportunity for applicants to discuss the masters degree/graduate certificate program of their choice and raise questions.

The interview is conducted by the College Graduate Programs Director and faculty who will be teaching in the program. Applicants may meet with staff members of the Admissions Office and other administrators in the Office of Graduate Studies to discuss administrative matters. The interview takes place face-to-face and lasts approximately 30-45 minutes.

In addition, the College Admissions Committee may request applicants to complete a short essay or memorandum during the interview process.

Admission Interview Tips

• Confirm your interview by telephone and/or email with the Office of Graduate Studies and make sure you have proper directions to the University.
• Confirm exactly who you will be having the interview with and their professional titles.
• Arrive at the interview on time. Inform the Office of Graduate Studies by telephone if you are going to be a few minutes late for the interview or if you no longer can attend the interview at the pre-scheduled time.
• Be yourself, and respond to questions honestly and candidly.
• Understand what you are asked. Feel free to ask for a repeat of the question if you do not understand a question.
• Asking questions is encouraged.
• Expect to answer many open-ended questions.
• Be informed about the University and the graduate program you have applied for and what it can do for you. Be prepared for questions about why you want to attend Zayed University as well as the particular graduate program, and customize your answers to reflect its strengths.
• Review as much information as possible on your formal application. Re-familiarize yourself with your grades, essay(s), and resume, so you do not make conflicting statements during the interview.
• Request from the Office of Graduate Studies to see the library, computer laboratory and classrooms to get an idea of the facilities offered.

Sample Discussion Points

• Professional experience with examples of when you thought you have assumed significant responsibility, managed teams, played a successful leadership role, and/or changed your organization in some way.
• Personal successes and failures.
• Professional successes and failures.
• Relationships with peers and supervisors.
• Conflict resolution and problem solving.
• Career progression and future career plans.

The College Admissions Committee will also evaluate applicants on the following attributes:

• Communications skills.
• Interpersonal skills (demeanor, cordiality).
• Team skills.
• Intellectual curiosity (asking questions, alertness).
• Entrepreneurial spirit (College of Business Sciences).
• Potential to assume a leadership position.
• Potential to make a significant contribution to an organization.
• Motivation and ability to successfully complete the degree.

• Technology Expertise
  
  

  Applicants must be able to use email, the Internet, and Microsoft Word, OR be willing to develop technical expertise prior to the beginning of the program.

  Students must have their own laptop computer no more than three years old with the following minimum specifications: Intel Dual Core (2.40GHz,3MB) processor, 512MB RAM graphics memory, 250GB hard disk drive, 4096 MB RAM memory, 8X DVD+/-RW Drive, 56.6K V.92 modem, built-in Wireless 6200 (802.11 a/g/Draft-n 2x2) card and English WindowsVista Home Basic SP2 (32Bit OS) operating system.

• International Students

  International students seeking to study at Zayed University must obtain an international student visa. Procedures for sponsorship cannot commence until after the student has accepted an unconditional offer of a place and has paid all fees due as per the Letter of Offer. Students need to allow at least two weeks for processing. Acceptance by Zayed University does not guarantee issue of a student visa by the immigration authorities.

  Students should apply for an international student visa before the commencement of their studies. Students arriving in the United Arab Emirates on a tourist or any other service visa, must exit the country in order to amend the issued visa or entry permit.

  A UAE international student visa is normally valid for a period of 12 months and it can be renewed on a yearly basis. The student is responsible for the student visa application fees. Student visa applications which are rejected will incur costs associated with the visa application process.

  The University reserves the right to monitor the academic progress and attendance of all international students. International students are expected to study full time to meet the requirements of their student visa, and any withdrawals from individual courses are monitored. In case of non-attendance and/or failure to satisfy the minimum requirements for academic progress, the University's sponsorship of the student's visa will be terminated. Students who wish to terminate their studies prior to the expiry date of the visa will have their Zayed University sponsored visa cancelled immediately. In these circumstances, students will have to make arrangements to leave the United Arab Emirates or seek other forms of sponsorship. It is the student’s responsibility to maintain a valid visa at all times.

  To apply for an international student visa, a student should submit to the Office of Graduate Studies the following:

  • A passport copy
  • Six passport-size photos
  • A deposit of AED 2,000

  Please note that, in addition to an international student visa, international students must also have appropriate and current international medical insurance for the duration of their planned period of study. Also, international students sponsored by Zayed University are not permitted to work while studying.

  For more information on an international student visa and/or advice on rights to employment in the United Arab Emirates while studying, please contact the Office of Graduate Studies at +971-50-454-1176. 

Other Requirements

• A completed application form
• A current resume
• A passport copy
• Two passport-size photos

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Application Procedure

Application

Admission is open to males and females of all nationalities.

An important factor in the success of the graduate programs is the quality of the participants. Zayed University seeks highly motivated individuals who can make a strong personal commitment to the time requirements of the program.

Graduate programs are delivered on a cohort basis to maximize the ability of participants to learn from each other. The size of each entering cohort class is limited to 30 highly qualified and committed participants.

The application is the candidate's introduction to the College Admissions Committee. All materials should be submitted in English as error free print in 12 pt. font. A carefully assembled and professional set of application materials will strengthen the case for admission to the program.

Application Process

Candidates can apply to study at any time throughout the year. However, early application will allow the Office of Graduate Studies to process applications more effectively.

Download and complete the appropriate Application for Graduate Program Admission form and return it to the Office of Graduate Studies, or alternatively candidates may wish to contact the Office of Graduate Studies at +971-50-454-1176 to request one to be sent to them.

Applications will not be processed unless they are accompanied by all relevant documentation and the non-refundable application fee. Certified photocopies of original documents are preferred to originals.

Documents may be mailed to:

Office of Graduate Studies
Zayed University
P.O. Box 144534
Abu Dhabi, U.A.E.
Tel: +971-50-454-1176
Fax: TBA

Academic Credit for Prior Tertiary Studies

Zayed University may provide academic credit for previous graduate studies provided:

• The graduate courses have been successfully completed at a recognized tertiary institution;
• The graduate courses meet the requirements of the Zayed University masters degree or graduate certificate; and
• A positive recommendation is received from the relevant Graduate Programs Representative and approved by the Dean of Graduate Studies.

The following documents should be provided in order to have an academic credit application assessed:

• A certified copy of the academic transcript, including the final results for all the relevant courses; and
• A full course outline for each of the relevant courses.

Students seeking academic credit for previous graduate studies are advised to contact the Office of Graduate Studies at +971-50-454-1176 for further information and advice on whether they qualify for academic credit towards a Zayed University program.

Offers

Students meeting the minimum graduate program entry requirements who are recommended for admission by the College Admissions Committee will receive a formal letter of offer to which he or she will be expected to respond. Admissions offers will be valid for 15 working days from the date of the admissions letter.

Deferment

On recommendation of the College Admissions Committee, Zayed University will permit deferment of an offered place for up to one year.

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Program Cost

* Academic merit-based scholarships are valued at AED 50,000, AED 35,000 and AED 25,000 and are awarded on the basis of academic merit as determined by the grade point average (GPA) from the last 20 graded courses of an applicant's undergraduate degree.

Program cost includes the introductory workshops, tuition, textbooks, course notes, access to library facilities and computing services, support of the Zayed University Computing Services staff, and the graduation ceremony.

Students must have their own laptop computer.

A non-refundable fee of AED 400 must accompany the application.

Payment Procedure

A non-refundable cohort registration fee of 10% of the total tuiton fee must be paid a minimum of 5 working days before the Orientation Day of the program to guarantee enrolment in the program.

The remaining amount due is payable as follows:

• Twenty five percent (25%) before the start of the first course.
• Twenty five percent (25%) before the start of the fourth course.
• Twenty five percent (25%) before the start of the seventh course.
• Twenty five percent (25%) before the start of the tenth course.

Students not in compliance with the tuition fee payment schedule are subject to suspension of registration and AED 500 reinstatement fee.

If the student's tuition fee is to be paid by his/her employer or a sponsor, fifty percent (50%) of the total tuition fees is due at the beginning of the first course, with the remaining fifty percent (50%) due at the beginning of the seventh course. Sponsored students should note that it is their responsibility to ensure that their sponsoring organizations pay tuition fees promptly in accordance with the schedule.

Students can view their tuition fee balances and pay their outstanding tuition fees directly on Blackboard at http://learn.zu.ac.ae Click on “View and Pay Tuition Fees” to view and pay outstanding tuition fee balances.  Online payments can be made via the secure online payment system available on the same page. For assistance regarding tuition fees, please email ar@zu.ac.ae

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Academic Merit-Based Scholarships

Academic merit-based scholarships are available to qualified male and female applicants of all nationalities. These scholarships are automatically assessed when a student has been accepted to study at Zayed University.

The graduate programs offered by the Institute for Islamic World Studies as well as Graduate Certificate programs are excluded from academic merit-based scholarships.

The academic merit-based scholarships are valued at AED 25,000, AED 35,000 and AED 50,000 and are awarded on the basis of academic merit as determined by the grade point average (GPA) from the last 20 graded courses of an applicant's undergraduate degree.

The academic merit-based scholarship will be applied to the final program tuition payment provided that the student:

• Adheres to and respects the Zayed University Student Honor Code;
• Has successfully completed all academic requirements for the conferral of the degree; and
• Is in good financial standing.

For more information on academic merit-based scholarships, please contact the Office of Graduate Studies at +971-50-454-1176

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Graduate Bursaries

Each fiscal year (Jan 1 - Dec 31), a small number of graduate bursaries, valued at a maximum of 50% of program tuition, are made available to academically qualified male and female students of all nationalities admitted to a Zayed University graduate program. Applicants for a graduate bursary:

• Must be unable to obtain sponsorship from their own organization;

• Must demonstrate financial need;

• Must be in good academic standing;

• Must be in good financial standing;

• Must adhere to and respect the Zayed University Student Honor Code; and,

• Must have successfully completed all academic requirements for the conferral of the degree.

Granting a Graduate Bursary

Recipients of graduate bursaries will be determined on the basis of financial need by a committee consisting of the Graduate Programs Directors and chaired by the Dean of Graduate Studies.The University may opt to award a partial bursary or not to award a bursary.

Applications

Download and complete the appropriate Application for a Graduate Bursary form and return it to the Office of Graduate Studies, or alternatively candidates may wish to contact the Office of Graduate Studies at +971-2-599-3562 to request one to be sent to them.

Applicants must submit the completed application form and relevant documentation to the Office of Graduate Studies by the end of the first course of the graduate program.

Notification

All applicants will be notified of the receipt of a completed graduate bursary application by the Office of Graduate Studies.

Award Payment

A proportion of the total award will be deducted from the final program tuition fee payment.

For more information on graduate bursaries, please contact the Office of Graduate Studies at +971-2-599-3562

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Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Higher Education Grants

Zayed University welcomes the new effort of the Abu Dhabi government to support graduate education.

Although the grants support Zayed University students to pursue their graduate education, they are not limited to the masters degree programs offered by Zayed University. The University is but one of the many options students have to pursue their graduate education.

The following Zayed University masters degree programs qualify for the grant:

• Executive Masters in Health Care Administration (EMHCA)

• Executive Masters in Public Administration (EMPA)

• Master of Arts (M.A.) in Diplomacy and International Affairs

• Master of Education (M.Ed.) (Specialization in Educational Leadership)

• Master of Arts (M.A.) in Communication (Specialization in Tourism and Cultural Communication)

Zayed University has prepared an Question and Answer sheet to assist students in understanding which masters degree programs are supported by the grant, and what the requirements are in order to receive an award.

For more information on the Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Higher Education grants, please see the following websites:

Grants Information and FAQ

• English : http://www.emiratesfoundation.ae/English/grants.aspx?main=4&sub1=22&sub2=0
• Arabic : http://www.emiratesfoundation.ae/Arabic/grants.aspx?main=4&sub1=22&sub2=0 

SMBZHEG Details and Application

• English : http://www.emiratesfoundation.ae/English/SMBZHEG.aspx
• Arabic : http://www.emiratesfoundation.ae/Arabic/SMBZHEG.aspx
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